Ammon News - By Abdulhamid Hamid Al-Kba- Relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have seen remarkable development in recent years, driven by a shared cultural and religious heritage dating back to the early Islamic eras, alongside growing economic and political interests. Jordan officially recognized Uzbekistan’s independence and established diplomatic relations with it on February 15, 1993, laying the foundation for ties based on mutual respect and commitment to the principles of sovereignty and international cooperation. Jordan opened its embassy in the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, in June 1994 to strengthen direct communication.

The presentation of credentials by the Uzbek Ambassador Nodirjon Turgunov to King Abdullah II in June 2025 (after submitting a copy to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 28) represented an important institutional step. It enhanced direct engagement and contributed to accelerating the conclusion of agreements and coordinating positions in international organizations.

From February 1 to 3, 2025, Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov visited Amman, where he was received by King Abdullah II at Al-Husseiniya Palace in the presence of Crown Prince Hussein. Saidov conveyed a message from President Shavkat Mirziyoyev affirming the desire to deepen ties. Discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi resulted in the signing of a visa exemption agreement for diplomatic passports and a ministerial cooperation program for 2025–2027. The meetings also involved the ministries of investment, higher education, and religious affairs, alongside representatives of Jordanian companies. The Jordan Chamber of Commerce and the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a memorandum of understanding to promote cooperation, followed by intensive meetings with the Jordan Chamber of Commerce, the Amman Chamber of Industry, and companies in pharmaceuticals, phosphates, textiles, clothing, food, and tourism, aimed at exploring joint investments and establishing electronic exchange platforms.

Economic and Trade Development
Cooperation focuses on sectors such as pharmaceuticals, phosphates, textiles, smart agriculture, and chemical industries. Jordan is viewed as a logistical hub for Uzbek products in the Middle East, while Uzbekistan serves as a gateway to Central Asia. However, the volume of trade remains modest, requiring swift implementation of the proposed preferential trade agreement and the removal of logistical barriers.

The Historic Royal Visit to Samarkand in August 2025
King Abdullah II’s visit to Uzbekistan on August 25–26, 2025, at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, marked a major turning point as the first official summit-level visit since the establishment of diplomatic relations. President Mirziyoyev welcomed the King at Samarkand Airport with an official reception ceremony that included an honor guard and the performance of national anthems.

The visit included a tour of Samarkand’s historic landmarks, such as the mausoleum of Qutham ibn Abbas, Registan Square (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the tomb of Amir Timur, and the “Eternal City” tourist complex, reflecting the emphasis on shared heritage. The two leaders held extensive talks at the Congress Center in Samarkand, addressing the enhancement of comprehensive partnership, expansion of political, economic, and investment cooperation, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

The talks resulted in the signing of 15 agreements and protocols, including: an agreement on the reciprocal promotion and protection of investments, visa exemption, extradition of criminals, cooperation in higher education and scientific research, agriculture, veterinary medicine, tourism, and standardization. Both sides affirmed the elevation of relations to the level of comprehensive partnership, with a focus on tourism as a promising sector that unites the historical heritage of the two countries. At the conclusion of the visit, the leaders planted an oak tree as a symbol of a new beginning. King Abdullah awarded President Mirziyoyev the “Order of the Bejewelled Grand Cordon of Al Nahda” (Order of the Renaissance), Jordan’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his reform efforts and role in strengthening relations.

The momentum continued with the visit of Senate President Faisal Al-Fayez to Tashkent in February 2026, where he delivered a message from the King. The visit focused on implementing the agreements, activating the joint governmental committee, and supporting Uzbekistan’s 2030 strategy, particularly in tourism and religious affairs.

Thus, this partnership represents a realistic model of cooperation between the two countries, combining cultural heritage and economic interests amid regional challenges. The royal visit was bold and impactful, leading to a leap in agreements, but success depends on translating it into real trade exchange and tangible investments. Challenges include the current limited trade volume and the need to diversify sectors.

This rapprochement enhances the status of Tashkent as a diplomatic center and opens wide doors to Arab markets. I believe that strong political commitment from both sides, combined with effective implementation of joint mechanisms, will transform this partnership into a sustainable model that effectively connects the two countries, delivering mutual benefits in economic and cultural stability.